Today, University of West Florida President Martha Saunders announced measures taken with two Fraternity & Sorority Life organizations.

The Tau-Psi chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity has been suspended for a minimum five-year period following the conclusion of an investigation into hazing as well as risk-management and alcohol-related misconduct. The activities occurred at an unregistered, off-campus bid day party hosted by the organization and included hazing, underage drinking, risk management violations, drinking games, common source container and coerced consumption of alcohol.

Additionally, the Nu Eta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has been temporarily suspended, pending the results of an investigation into allegations of hazing and risk-management violations. This is an active investigation.

Both of these measures were taken yesterday, Nov. 16, 2017, and are effective immediately.

“The University takes this type of behavior very seriously,” Saunders said. “It is unacceptable and is not reflective of the overall culture of fraternity and sorority life on our campus.”

UWF provides a variety of resources and trainings to equip members of sororities and fraternities to safely engage in their organizations. The University will continue to work with students, advisors and other stakeholders to identify opportunities to further support students in these areas. There will be meetings and events to discuss these in the coming weeks.

“Although we remain committed to the growth and success of the fraternity and sorority community at UWF, we must hold all our student organizations to the standards set forth by the University in the interest of our students’ safety and success,” Saunders said. “I expect our fraternity and sorority chapter members to take all appropriate measures to ensure that chapter activities adhere to University standards and regulations.”